Editor's note: Part of a weeklong series on local domestic violence issues.

WAUSAU - Like many complex social issues, the roads of domestic violence and substance abuse often converge in our community in a variety of ways. Alcohol does not cause someone to be abusive. Drug use does not make someone violent. So, why is there such a strong link between substance misuse and violence?

A past history of trauma (whether it was firsthand or witnessed in childhood), is one of the factors that can lead to quick and intense addiction. A person who is controlling of others even when they have had nothing to drink or taken any other type of drug may become more aggressive when they are under the influence. Additionally, it is not uncommon for victims of domestic violence to turn to substances as a way to numb the feelings of confusion, hurt, guilt, shame, or hopelessness that comes with being abused.

Shannon Jarecki(Photo: Courtesy of Shannon Jarecki)

The connection is that these substances are a catalyst or facilitator to the abuse, more than a direct cause. Those who look to abuse others seek out vulnerabilities or weaknesses in potential partners, such as past abuse, low self-esteem, financial need, and an alcohol or drug dependence, and prey on the individual. This controlling partner may “feed” that addiction to keep their victim weak, dependent (financially and chemically), and isolated.

Overcoming addiction is extremely difficult and requires regular maintenance. Leaving a violent, unhealthy relationship is also very complicated. Breaking free of addiction and an abuse cycle at the same time requires a great amount of strength on the part of the victim.

Even more importantly, availability of support and resources from friends, family, and community are essential to the person who is leaving an abusive situation — and will increase the chances of lifelong sobriety and establishing healthy relationships in the future.

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Melissa Dotter(Photo: USA TODAY NETWORK-Wisconsin)

Join our conversation

In honor of October’s Domestic Violence Awareness Month, the Marathon County AOD Partnership is collaborating with organizations who are working to impact domestic violence in the community at a public forum on Tuesday. The public is welcome to attend a panel discussion, "What Happens When the Paths of Domestic Violence and Addiction Cross." from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. in Room E101 of the main building at Northcentral Technical College, Wausau. No advanced registration is necessary, and the event is free to attend. Additionally, one free CEU will also be available to participants upon request. For more information visit www.aodpartnership.org.

Shannon Jarecki is domestic abuse program manager at The Women's Community in Wausau. Melissa Dotter is Drug Free Communities coordinator for Marathon County. This series is presented by the Marathon County Domestic Abuse Intervention Team.